Grace Episcopal Church – Sterling, Illinois

Grace Episcopal Church has been a welcoming and faithful community in Sterling since 1856. Our journey began with the laying of the first church cornerstone in 1865, and since 1948, we've called 707 First Avenue our spiritual home.

We are proud members of the American Episcopal Church, the Episcopal Diocese of Chicago, and the Episcopal Deanery of Rockford. Our worship is rooted in the Book of Common Prayer, typically following Eucharist Rite Two, with a strong focus on liturgy as the center of our parish life.

At Grace, we believe church is more than a place—it’s a family. We are small but mighty, and our strong sense of community is evident in how we care for one another. Whether through Lay Communion visits to shut-ins, shared celebrations of birthdays and anniversaries, or the heartfelt way we “pass the peace” in the main aisle, we strive to embody Christ’s love in all we do.

Fellowship is a vital part of who we are. From weekly coffee hours to our beloved First Sunday Breakfasts, we cherish time spent together. Our beautifully maintained gardens—tended by dedicated volunteers—are a visible sign of the care and joy we bring to our community.

We are also active beyond our walls, engaging in outreach programs and service that reflect our commitment to Christ’s call to love and serve others.

At Grace Episcopal Church, when you walk through our doors, you're not a stranger—you’re family.